An Update on the Community Leadership Project from the David and Lucile Packard, James Irvine, and William and Flora Hewlett Foundations
August 27, 2009
We announced in April an $8 million commitment over three years to launch the Community Leadership Project, an effort by the Packard, Irvine and Hewlett foundations to strengthen grassroots organizations that are led by or serve low-income people and communities of color in the Greater San Francisco Bay Area, Central Coast and San Joaquin Valley. In June, we announced a first round of funding totaling $5.7 million to nine intermediary organizations that will distribute grants, or provide technical assistance or leadership programs, to organizations serving the targeted communities.
In launching this project, we sought to address an important need, and the response to our most recent application process has confirmed the demand for this investment. In July, we requested letters of inquiry for a second round of grantmaking to organizations interested in distributing grants and otherwise supporting nonprofit groups in the targeted communities. Not only did we receive a large number of applications, but the proposed ideas are creative and compelling. As a result, the three foundations have agreed to contribute an additional $1 million of funding to support some of these proposed projects, bringing the level of funding for this round to a total of $3.3 million.
We also recognize that these grants will not meet all of the needs of nonprofits and the people they serve in these communities. Our foundations each have a long tradition of making grants to help underserved communities, and we view this grantmaking initiative as part of a continuing commitment to listen to communities and to work to assure that all of California's citizens prosper through effective grantmaking. Although our resources are limited in contrast to the need, we are encouraged that this project is helping to strengthen bonds we have with some organizations, introducing us to new potential partners and expanding avenues of communication with dedicated organizations serving the target communities.
We are currently reviewing the applications to select those that have the most potential for impact. We will respond to all applicants in early September. For applicants from whom we are able to invite a proposal, we will send guidelines on how to prepare a full proposal. We anticipate being able to invite a total of 10 to 15 proposals with our increased funding. Grants will be awarded in the late fall.
More information about the Community Leadership Project will be posted to this site as it becomes available.
Sincerely,
Kathy Reich, Program Officer, The David and Lucile Packard Foundation
Anne Vally, Special Initiatives Officer, The James Irvine Foundation
Kari Mah, Fellow, The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation
